The Badung Regency Government has launched a Rp2.9 trillion (approximately US$161.3 million) road project aimed at easing congestion in tourist areas.
The project is supported by PT SMI and is expected to improve accessibility and boost the local economy in Badung Regency, Bali.
The groundbreaking ceremony was officiated by Badung Regent I Wayan Adi Arnawa and Bali Governor Wayan Koster on Monday, 27th of July. The planned infrastructure works include the Southern Ring Road and the Berawa–Umalas–Kedampang–West Teuku Umar Shortcut.
“Strategic infrastructure development in the South Badung region will be implemented in 2026–2027. The initial phase includes the construction of the South Ring Road (Jalan Lingkar Selatan or JLS) and the improvement of the Siligita Intersection, with a total length of 10.89 kilometres, and the construction of the Semer–Teuku Umar Barat Road to alleviate congestion at the Semer Intersection, with a total length of 4.77 kilometres, with a budget of over Rp2.9 trillion,” said Arnawa in a statement.
Arnawa explained that the new road network would provide alternative routes for motorists, reduce congestion on major roads, strengthen connectivity between areas in Badung, and improve access to residential neighbourhoods, public service centres, tourist destinations, and economic hubs.
The Badung Regent also outlined the long-term plan for the Southern Ring Road, which is designed to span 29.95 kilometres. Meanwhile, road development in the Central and North Badung regions is targeted to reach a combined total of 52.95 kilometres during the 2026–2029 period.
Arnawa added that the entire project has undergone a feasibility study and the preparation of a Detailed Engineering Design (DED), which serve as the basis for determining the route and road specifications. The site selection and land acquisition process were also carried out through consensus, while respecting the rights of landowners and prioritising fairness.
“They [the local community] are fed up with the traffic jams in South Badung, so they support this development,” he said.
Meanwhile, at the same occasion, Koster described the project as an important step towards tackling chronic traffic congestion in southern Bali’s tourism hub.
“I am grateful that what has been planned for a long time can now begin. This area is a very busy tourist destination, not only for local residents but also for tourists. The ongoing congestion must be resolved so that tourism in Badung and Bali remains high-quality, competitive, and sustainable,” the Governor said.